Thailand made history in 2022 by becoming the first Asian country to legalize recreational marijuana. However, just two years later, the government announced a plan to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic, causing significant confusion.
Those involved in the marijuana industry, often referred to as the “green gold,” are opposing the reclassification of marijuana as a narcotic. They have staged protests against the Thai government regarding marijuana use. Despite this, the Thai government is pushing forward with plans to revoke the legalization.
Thailand’s Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin reportedly instructed the Ministry of Public Health in May to amend regulations by the end of this year to reclassify marijuana as a narcotic. If the laws change, marijuana would be permitted only for medical use in Thailand.
In response, Srettha stated, “We will reclassify marijuana as a narcotic by the end of this year, making the possession and consumption of marijuana a crime.” However, some critics have pointed out that this sudden shift in policy contrasts sharply with the Thai government’s previous promotion of marijuana’s economic benefits just two years ago.
In June 2022, the Thai government aimed to establish the country as a central hub for the marijuana industry and hosted a Marijuana Expo to promote this vision. The event was designed to showcase the potential of marijuana and educate the public about its benefits.
Moreover, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Minister of Public Health at that time, publicly stated, “Marijuana is no longer a narcotic plant” and emphasized, “It is no longer a drug, and we must use it correctly.” High-ranking government officials openly promoted the legalization of marijuana.
As a result, the number of people working in the marijuana industry surged, leading to a genuine marijuana craze in Thai society. Many restaurants began selling marijuana-infused foods, and products like toothpaste and cosmetics occasionally featured marijuana as an ingredient. This rapid increase in demand stemmed from government support.
However, the misuse of marijuana has led to negative consequences in Thai society. Notably, a three-year-old child had to be hospitalized after consuming marijuana-infused jelly. This incident occurred because the snacks did not properly label their marijuana content.
After the legalization of marijuana, the number of recreational users surged, raising concerns about various abuse incidents and youth addiction. These developments have prompted the Thai government to consider reclassifying marijuana as a narcotic just two years after its legalization.
However, as of July, workers in the marijuana industry have reportedly protested against the government’s revised marijuana policy. They marched toward the Prime Minister’s office, holding marijuana pots and chanting, “Cannabis, freedom!” Further, the protesters reportedly demanded that the government draft appropriate legislation for the regulated use of marijuana instead of banning it outright.
One marijuana grower expressed concern, stating, “I’m worried. Everyone has already invested a lot of money.” He added, “As a grower, my main concern is whether I can continue to grow or use marijuana.” The reclassification of marijuana as a narcotic could make it impossible for them to continue their livelihood. The opposition from those affected by the government’s policy reversal will likely continue.
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